Pivoting Knee Joint for Diverse Applications
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
A thigh prosthetic component with a pivoting knee joint is adapted for use in various industries, including robotic harvesting, search and rescue, underwater exploration, exoskeleton-assisted rehabilitation, and space exploration.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent for a thigh prosthetic component was limited to its application in prosthetics. However, the core technology of the pivoting knee joint has the potential to be applied to other fields, addressing the need for adaptable and versatile joints in diverse industries.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept involves adapting the thigh prosthetic component's pivoting knee joint for connection to various systems, such as robotic harvesting arms, underwater propulsion systems, exoskeletons, and space suits. The knee joint's ability to pivot between a stance position and a swing position enables navigation of uneven terrain, rubble, underwater currents, and low-gravity environments. The new claims provide a comprehensive solution for industries requiring adaptable and versatile joints.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce a novel application of the pivoting knee joint technology, extending its use beyond prosthetics to diverse industries. The inventive step lies in the recognition of the core technology's potential for adaptation and its implementation in various fields.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include modifying the knee joint's design for specific industries, such as adding sensors for underwater exploration or adjusting the joint's flexibility for search and rescue operations. Variations could also involve integrating the pivoting knee joint with other technologies, such as artificial intelligence or advanced materials.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential in various industries, including agriculture, emergency response, marine exploration, healthcare, and space exploration. The target market includes companies and organizations seeking adaptable and versatile joints for their systems and applications.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61F2/64 |
| A | A61 | A61F2/642 |
| A | A61 | A61F2/6607 |
| A | A61 | A61F2/74 |
| A | A61 | A61F2002/6614 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Prosthetic and robotic joint mechanisms, specifically biomechanical systems involving articulated limb components with pivoting capabilities across medical, robotic, and assistive technology domains
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or robotics specialist with expertise in joint design, mechanical engineering, and interdisciplinary adaptation of biomechanical systems, possessing knowledge of articulation mechanisms, material science, and cross-industry technology transfer
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize the fundamental adaptability of the pivoting knee joint mechanism disclosed in the source patent as inherently transferable across multiple technical domains. The core mechanical principles of stance and swing positioning are universally applicable, making the extension to robotic, exploration, and assistive technologies a predictable engineering variation. The source patent's detailed knee joint mechanics provide a direct technical foundation for reimagining the component's application beyond prosthetic limb design.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,394 |
|---|---|
| Title | Thigh prosthetic component |